Type of qualification
Level of study
An undergraduate qualification is usually the first one you study.
Our courses follow the New Zealand Qualification Framework (NZQF) levels.
Time to complete
International students
International students are not New Zealand citizens or residents.
Study a Bachelor of Business – BBus
Welcome to the world of business education – your future starts here!
Massey’s Bachelor of Business encourages you to explore and master your business knowledge and skills, so you can contribute meaningfully and innovatively to the rapidly evolving globalised business world.
Our lecturers and professors are actively researching both nationally and internationally, bringing the most relevant developments in business theory and practice into your learning environment.
Massey Business School also has great links with communities and potential employers. You'll have many opportunities to put your learning into practice while engaging with local community organisations and businesses.
You will be someone who:
- has a sound base in the business fundamentals of accounting, communication, economics, finance, business law, management, Māori business, marketing, and sustainable business operations
- is an independent learner
- is an innovative, creative, critical thinker who can make informed decisions and solve problems
- is an effective communicator
- is able to lead or work within a team
- can find and use the latest knowledge to grow a business
- is culturally adept with a solid understanding of the role of te Tiriti in the Aotearoa NZ business environment, and skills to be effective in multi-cultural and international business environments
- is an ethical and culturally sensitive professional
- is a specialist in 1 or more areas of business expertise; and well-versed in the business fundamentals
With 10 core course options to choose from, the BBus gives you flexibility to focus on your areas of interest. You can work to your strengths, and fill any gaps in your knowledge and skills.
Insights
- The QS World University Ranking ranks Massey in the top 250 universities worldwide. Our specific disciplines also rank highly: Accounting and Finance in the top 250; Business and Management: top 500; Communication and Media Studies: top 150; Economics and Econometrics: top 350.
- Bachelor of Business students have a high completion rate across their courses (2022: 82.6% and 2023: 81%). The flexibility of the qualification allows students to return to their studies at any time.
- The 2022 Student Experience Survey results for this qualification found that 81% believed assessment tasks challenged students to learn, and 84% highlight that the qualification has given them “confidence to learn independently”.
- The 2021 Graduate Destination Survey results for this qualification found that 82% of graduates are in employment and 41% have continued in further study.
A BBus is a good fit if you:
- want to gain detailed knowledge and insights into business subjects you are curious about
- want to learn how to change business for the better
- can think things through analytically and creatively.
Entry requirements
Admission to Massey
All students must meet university entrance requirements to be admitted to the University.
Specific requirements
There are no specific entry requirements for this qualification, outside of university admission regulations.
English language requirements
To study this qualification you must meet Massey University's English language standards.
Prior learning, credit and exemptions
Exemptions on the basis of high NCEA Level 3 marks are available in Statistics, Accounting and Economics.
If you have achieved 24 credits at NCEA Level 3 with an Average of Merit and have a high overall achievement, or have a scholarship in the relevant subject(s), you may be eligible to be exempt from taking the following core courses: 115112 Accounting for Business, 115113 Economics of Business. If you think you are in this category, you can apply for an exemption by contacting Academic Advice. Please note that you will need to take another course in place of any exemptions granted and even if eligible, we would not advise applying for more than 2 exemptions.
For information on prior learning, exemptions and transfer of credit or other questions:
- review the Recognition of Prior Learning regulations
- contact us through the Get advice button on this page.
English language skills
If you need help with your English language skills before you start university, see our English for Academic Purposes (EAP) courses.
Recommended prior learning
English and maths are desirable school subjects. A school background in accounting and economics is useful but not essential.
Official regulations
To understand what you need to study and must complete to graduate read the official rules and regulations for this qualification.
You should read these together with all other relevant Statutes and Regulations of the University including the General Regulations for Undergraduate Degrees, Undergraduate Diplomas, Undergraduate Certificates, Graduate Diplomas and Graduate Certificates.
Returning students
For returning students, there may be changes to the majors and minors available and the courses you need to take. Go to the section called ‘Transitional Provisions’ in the Regulations to find out more.
In some cases the qualification or specialisation you enrolled in may no longer be taking new enrolments, so may not appear on these web pages. To find information on the regulations for these qualifications go to the Massey University Calendar.
Please contact us through the Get advice button on this page if you have any questions.
Structure of the Bachelor of Business
You can study the Bachelor of Business full-time – usually over 3 years – or study part-time over a longer period.
If you study full-time, in your first year, you’ll usually take eight 15-credit courses, making a total of 120 credits.
If you wish to study full-time over 2 semesters, you should aim for 60 credits per semester. There may also be options to take some Summer School courses. Make sure you include courses that are prerequisites for the next level of courses you wish to study. An Academic Adviser can help you plan your whole (full-time, 3-year) qualification in advance.
We recommend you enrol for part-time study if you work for more than 12-15 hours a week, or have other commitments that will prevent you from being able to allocate at least 35-40 hours per week to your studies. This is an excellent choice for those seeking to balance study alongside work, family, and other personal commitments. You can apply your evolving theoretical and practical knowledge immediately in your workplace contexts.
Part-time study can also give you a gradual transition into academic learning, so you can adapt without feeling overwhelmed. Courses can be spread across Semester One, Semester Two and Summer School. Please contact an Academic Adviser to plan your part-time study and completion timeframe to meet your needs.
Core business courses
There are 10 core business courses. You must choose and pass at least 8 of them. It is highly recommended that you take the remaining 2 core courses as elective courses (unless you are taking a double major with no space for electives).
The core courses are 115111, 115112, 115113, 115114, 115115, 115116, 115211, 115212, 115230 and 115340.
You must pass at least 60 credits of 100-level core courses within the first 120 credits, and at least 30 credits of 200 or 300-level core courses within the first 240 credits of study towards the degree.
Core courses cover topics across the business spectrum. They are designed to give you the fundamental foundational business skills that you will need in your career.
Typical Pattern for full-time Bachelor of Business
Year 1
You will study at least four 100-level core subjects in your first year. No matter which area of business you choose to go into for a career, these courses enable you to build transferable skills and a solid foundational understanding of how businesses work.
You will build on these fundamental skills and knowledge as you move through the second and third years of the Bachelor of Business.
Year 2
You will start your major and – if you like – a second major or a minor*. You will also complete at least 2 more core courses at 100 or 200-level.
*a minor or second major is compulsory for the Applied Professional Practice major.
Year 3
In your final year you will progress to advanced studies in your chosen major. You will complete any remaining core courses (200 or 300-level). Some majors also offer a capstone course which brings your business knowledge, communication and teamwork, critical thinking skills, and understanding of ethics together. You can also choose to do an internship as an elective course in this year providing you have room in your degree.
The BBus provides considerable flexibility, enabling you to take control of your own qualification within the regulations.
Typical pattern for the Bachelor of Business
Core courses These courses are a compulsory part of your qualification.
Major courses Choose from a selection of courses appropriate for your specialisation.
Elective courses Follow your interests. Your qualification may have selection guidelines for elective courses.
| Year One |
|---|
| Core course |
| Core course |
| Core course |
| Core course |
| Core course |
| Core course |
| Elective |
| Elective |
| Year Two |
|---|
| Core course |
| Core course |
| 200-level major |
| 200-level major |
| 200-level major |
| 200-level major |
| Core course or elective |
| Elective |
| Year Three |
|---|
| 300-level major |
| 300-level major |
| 300-level major |
| 300-level major |
| Core course or elective |
| Elective |
| Elective |
| Elective |
Courses are each worth 15 credits
Courses and specialisations
Key terms
- Courses
- Each qualification has its own specific set of courses. Some universities call these papers. You enrol in courses after you get accepted into Massey.
- Course code
- Each course is numbered using 6 digits. The fourth number shows the level of the course. For example, in course 219206, the fourth number is a 2, so it is a 200-level course (usually studied in the second year of full-time study).
- Credits
- Each course is worth a number of credits. You combine courses (credits) to meet the total number of credits needed for your qualification.
- Specialisations
- Some qualifications let you choose what subject you'd like to specialise in. Your major or endorsement is what you will take the majority of your courses in.
Credit summary
360 credits
- Core courses – 120 credits
- Major courses – 120 credits
- Electives – 120 credits
Ensure that overall, you have:
- Not more than 180 credits at 100 level (including no more than 90 credits of 100‑level electives)
- At least 75 credits at 300 level (including at least 15 credits of 300‑level electives, if necessary)
You could replace electives with a second BBus major, or some electives with a recognised minor.
Course planning key
- Prerequisites
- Courses that need to be completed before moving onto a course at the next level. For example, a lot of 200-level courses have 100-level prerequisite courses.
- Corequisites
- Courses that must be completed at the same time as another course are known as corequisite courses.
- Restrictions
- Some courses are restricted against each other because their content is similar. This means you can only choose one of the offered courses to study and credit to your qualification.
Schedule A: Core courses (Choose at least 120 credits from)
Course code: 115111 Communication Theory and Practice 15 credits
This course identifies key theories and strategies to enhance written, oral, visual, and interpersonal communication for different purposes and audiences. Students explore, discuss, critique, and practise communication for a business and global environment and recognise how world views, culture, and contexts shape communication.
View full course detailsCourse code: 115112 Accounting for Business 15 credits
An introduction to how accounting information is used for planning, monitoring and evaluating organisational performance.
View full course detailsCourse code: 115113 Economics for Business 15 credits
The course examines the nature of the contemporary economic environment in which businesses operate, and considers how economics can aid in business decision-making.
View full course detailsCourse code: 115114 Finance Fundamentals 15 credits
This course introduces analytical techniques for evaluating personal and business investment and financing decisions, including coverage of the context and environment in which these decisions are made.
View full course detailsCourse code: 115115 Management in Context 15 credits
This course provides students with a theoretical and practical understanding of management and organisations in the contemporary context.
View full course detailsCourse code: 115116 Introduction to Marketing 15 credits
The course provides an understanding of the core concepts and practices of marketing.
View full course detailsCourse code: 115211 Business Law 15 credits
The course will encompass an introduction to the key elements of the law within which business operates in New Zealand from a practical perspective.
View full course detailsCourse code: 115212 Fundamentals of Leadership and Teamwork 15 credits
This course provides an introduction to the theory and practice of leadership and teamwork.
View full course detailsCourse code: 115230 Pakihi Māori 15 credits
Examines the Māori economy, Māori businesses, and the significance of Māori perspectives and values in organisations in Aotearoa New Zealand. Students will develop their understanding of the importance of cultural competencies in diverse organisations.
View full course detailsCourse code: 115340 Sustainable Business Operations 15 credits
A study of integrated business operations with sustainability as an integrating theme. Interdisciplinary perspectives will highlight the interconnections of environmental, social, cultural, and ethical concerns in business operations. Contemporary challenges will be examined through the lens of a range of organisations and business sectors.
View full course detailsSchedule B: Specialisations
Majors
Some qualifications let you choose what subject you'd like to specialise in. Your major or endorsement is what you will take the majority of your courses in.
Completing a major is compulsory. A major requires 120 credits including at least 60 credits at 300-level. If you wish to do an internship, it will normally be in addition to your major. Double majors are possible.
Accountancy
Become an accountancy specialist with the skills and knowledge to succeed in the world of business.
Applied Professional Practice
You'll combine theory with authentic workplace experiences as you build professional skills, work in cross-functional teams and tackle real-world challenges. Explore your own value set, strengths, challenges, and passions as you become a practical, capable business professional.
Business Analytics
Develop your analytical skills and enhance your ability to extract value from data.
Economics
The Bachelor of Business (Economics) is a versatile degree where you will learn how the world of business works, and gain the skills to interpret global information and events.
Finance
Join Massey University’s finance programme to gain superior decision-making skills and a career advantage.
Financial Planning and Advice
Help people make the best financial decisions for their future. Join a growing industry and study the only university financial planning and advice specialisation in New Zealand.
Global Communication
Develop skills critical to effective communication in a rapidly changing global environment.
Human Resource Management and Employment Relations
The Bachelor of Business (Human Resource Management and Employment Relations) will give you the theoretical, policy and business skills you need to understand, manage and collaborate effectively with people in the workplace.
International Business
Gain the knowledge and skills, critical to business success in times of global challenges.
Management
Become a manager or entrepreneur that empowers others and makes a real difference to the future.
Marketing
Learn how to gain business insights, create loyal customers, and plan strategies and solutions to help companies thrive.
Organisational Technology Management
The Bachelor of Business (Organisational Technology Management) will give you an in-depth understanding of the impact of technology, data, and the skills needed to manage these to help businesses succeed.
Property
Studying property at Massey gives you the expertise and confidence to access exciting opportunities in the dynamic and growing property industry.
Minors
Completing a minor is optional*. Minors increase the breadth of your degree and give you extra knowledge, attributes and capabilities. A minor must be in a different subject from your major.
If you study towards a BBus, you may choose a minor from any University undergraduate degree that has recognised minors. If the minor is from another degree the regulations of that qualification will apply.
*The major in Applied Professional Practice requires a minor or second major
Bachelor of Business minors
All BBus majors are available as minors. The following are also available as minor-only topics. See the BBus regulations for requirements.
Business Law
Gain the skills to act competently and knowledgeably in the legal environment, both generally and in a business context – this is an overview of statutory interpretation and specific areas of relevant business law. 155202, and 45 credits from 155201, 155203, 155210, 155301.
Māori Business
Learn about Māori approaches to management and entrepreneurship and doing business with and within the Māori economy – especially suited to aspiring entrepreneurs, business owners and managers. 152252, 152270 and 150201. 152370 is not offered. Please contact Academic Advice to discuss a suitable replacement.
- Accountancy
- Applied Professional Practice
- Business Analytics
- Business Law
- Economics
- Finance
- Financial Planning and Advice
- Global Communication
- Human Resource Management and Employment Relations
- International Business
- Management
- Marketing
- Organisational Technology Management
- Property
Fees and scholarships
Fees, student loans and free fees scheme
Your tuition fees may be different depending on the courses you choose. Your exact fees will show once you have chosen your courses.
There will also be some compulsory non-tuition fees and for some courses, there may also be charges for things such as study resources, software, trips and contact workshops.
- Get an estimate of the tuition fees for your qualification
- View a list of non-tuition fees that may be payable
Already know which courses you're going to choose?
You can view fees for the courses that make up your qualification on the course details pages.
Student loans (StudyLink) and Fees Free scheme
You may be eligible for a student loan to help towards paying your fees.
The New Zealand Government offers fees-free tertiary study for eligible domestic students. Find out more about the scheme, including how much could be covered and your eligibility on the Fees Free website.
Scholarship and award opportunities
- Business Excellence Scholarship
- David Levene Foundation Bursaries
- Marcus Kitt Colliers Bursary
- Massey University Undergraduate First Year Scholarship – School Leavers
- McEwan Pacific Student Scholarship
- New Zealand Excellence Awards (India)
- OneChoice Futures Grant
Fees disclaimer
This information is for estimation purposes only. Actual fees payable will be finalised on confirmation of enrolment. Unless otherwise stated, all fees shown are quoted in New Zealand dollars and include Goods and Services Tax, if any. Before relying on any information on these pages you should also read the University's Disclaimer Notice.
Careers and job opportunities
The Bachelor of Business equips you with flexible and highly portable skills that employers welcome. Your skills will fit across industries, from small business settings to multi-national organisations.
While it depends on what major you choose, some of the career opportunities available are:
- management accountant or financial accountant
- business, systems or information analyst
- public relations, communication manager, or media consultant
- economist, economic statistician, business/policy/risk analyst, economic forecaster, financial advisor or consultant
- small business manager, new venture initiator or project manager
- financial analyst, investment banking analyst, sharebroker or financial consultant
- human resource or recruitment manager, or facilitator in employment relations
- international market developer, or dealer in exporting, licensing, and importing
- market researcher, marketing manager, or advertising and communication specialist
- professional sports administrator, sports marketer, or events manager
- property manager, property developer, or valuer.
What our students say
“Without my degree, I do not feel as if I would be able to confidently lead the team or make effective yet efficient decisions”
Te Rarawa
Accreditations and rankings
Association to Advance Collegiate Schools of Business (AACSB)
Massey Business School is rated in the top 5% of global business colleges by AACSB International.
QS Ranking - Business Management Studies
Massey University is ranked by QS (Quacquarelli Symonds) as one of the top 500 universities for business and management.
ShanghaiRanking – Business Administration
Massey University is ranked #2 in New Zealand for business administration by ShanghaiRanking.
Useful planning information
Key information for students
Compare qualifications and academic information across different New Zealand institutions. Learn more on careers.govt.nz